Building cleaner production: How to anchor sustainability in the food production chain?

Abstract

Herein, we review the main themes associated with sustainability in the food production chain. Through the literature review, we shed light on the ongoing debate about the evolution and application strategies of change drivers that assist in the transition to cleaner production processes in the food area. Besides, the main tools for evaluating sustainability metrics and indicators applied to the food production chain were identified, and a closer look at the environmental burdens associated with these segments was discussed. Still, an overview of the sustainable strategies already implemented in the food industries was presented, and its positive results were pointed out and highlighted. Also, this review argues how social and economic indicators need to move forward to anchoring sustainability in the food production chain, through perceptions of value; and how sustainable marketing can help consumers make choices regarding the consumption of cleaner and more sustainable foods. Finally, we bring new managerial insights to opinion makers and stakeholders looking to convince food companies and segments to develop sustainable business practices.

Keywords

• Food production
• Food industry
• Sustainability metrics
• Development sustainable
• Sustainable consumption